what does a "monitored cycle" mean?

[Anonymous]

I've been reading up on both medicated and unmedicated IUI's, and keep reading about, "monitored" cycles. What does this mean? Aren't all cycles with an RE monitored, by definition? Also, with an unmedicated IUI, is the procedure always 36 hours after a positive on one of those home ovulation predictor kits? Or is it monitored/tinkered with more closely than that? Do different doctors have different approaches to this? Sorry if these questions are really basic. We are new to all of this!

[Anonymous]

I did a monitored cycle at Dominion because post-m/c I thought my luteal phase seemed too short.

They did bloodwork and u/s on my third day. Then I came back on day 9 and every day until I ovulated. Then I came back a week later for bloodwork. Got pregnant that cycle!

[Anonymous]

I'm considering monitored only. The big differences for me: u/s so they can see if there are follicles growing and an OPK for me, was not always accurate. Blood work is more reliable. I'm trying to break down your question: yes, all cycles w/ RE are monitored, on your own is 'unmonitored." IUI timing at RE is based on b/w and u/s, more accurate than OPK. Yes, very different: and what 'medicate' means too -- I need the ovulation trigger more than anything else. HTH.